Academic Programs

Advances in medicine, strategies for conservation of biodiversity, and new discoveries in biotechnology are some of the exciting events happening in the ever-changing field of biology. Whether you want to explore the mechanisms of drug action, manage fish and wildlife habitats, assess water quality in aquatic ecosystems, or enlighten the public on endangered plant species, the Department of Biology at Ball State is the place to start.

Biology is the study of life itself. It explains how life forms and living things function and how they relate to each other as well as their environments. Ball State’s major in biology will deepen your understanding of this ever-growing field of science. We offer eight tracks in our program.

Customize your course of study in biology to match your interests whether you choose to start a career right after graduation, continue studying in the field at the graduate level, or become a medical doctor, dentist, veterinarian, or other health professional. Learn more.

Prepare to address global issues such as environmental degradation, extinction of plant species, the need to produce more food for a growing human population, and many other challenges faced by a constantly changing planet. Learn more.

Develop a broad understanding of genes and heredity in living organisms through the study of genomes, molecular biology, human genetics and more as well how genetics is applied in fields like agriculture, genetic counseling, biotechnology and others. Learn more.

Our pre-health professions programs provide you with the necessary foundation for a successful career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary practice, optometry, medical technology and other health professions.

Many universities only offer majors in biology or chemistry for students pursuing a career in one of these health professions, but our curriculum offers a much broader education through diverse class offerings and unique partnerships with schools in the region, ensuring you’ll be application-ready when you complete our program.

Degree Programs

Prepare for the rigorous and competitive process of applying to a medical school by gaining a strong foundation in the sciences, plus hands-on research experiences and clinical opportunities. Learn more.

Play a vital role in diagnosing and preventing diseases by learning how to conduct laboratory work in bacteriology, chemistry, serology, and blood bank technology. Learn more.

Non-Degree Programs

Our non-degree programs can be completed on their own, but our students often pair the program of their choice with a major in order to earn a bachelor’s degree from Ball State. While biology is a popular major to pair with one of these programs, students can major in any subject. Plus, an advisor specializing in pre-health professions guides our students every step of the way.

Prepare to meet the admission requirements for Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. You may also work with a departmental advisor to develop a plan of study that will prepare you for another school. Learn more.

Passionate about passing your love of science to younger generations? Our life science licensure program prepares you to teach middle school grades five through eight, as a science generalist with a life science concentration, or high school, grades nine through 12, as a science specialist. Learn more.

No matter where your career takes you, a minor in biology will give you an edge in your field and make you more marketable. Our interdisciplinary program includes many hands-on learning experiences, small class sizes, and experienced faculty teaching the courses. Learn more.

Our minor in physiology is an excellent choice if your career will take you into the fields of medicine, sports, and more. Completing a minor in physiology will make you more marketable after graduation and distinguish you from other job applicants. Learn more.

A master of science or master of arts in biology will strengthen your background in biological sciences and related disciplines through coursework and extensive research that culminates in a research thesis. Our master’s program will prepare you for further study at the doctoral level, or you may transition directly into a professional career in research, industry, and environmental biology in the private and public sectors. Learn more.

This program is designed for students seeking in-depth coverage of physiological principles pertaining to the human organism, endocrinology, renal function, cardiovascular dynamics, neurophysiology, and pathophysiology. Learn more.

Biotechnology is one of the most in-demand career fields in the United States. Our certificate in biotechnology will position you to join this rapidly growing economic sector as a research associate or quality control associate in pharmaceutical or agricultural companies, academic institutions, and government agencies. Learn more.